GETTING TO KNOW: SENIOR MIDFIELDER LUCAS PAULINI

RICHMOND, Va. - The VCU men's soccer team has seen a resurgence to
the top of the CAA and a large part that has to do with numerous
new players that are donning hte Black & Gold this
season.

Senior midfielder Lucas
Paulini is one of those players and he has been outstanding for
the Rams. Prior to his senior night game against UNC, he sat down
with VCU Athletic Communications Student Assistant Scott Wyant to
give us the scoop on himself.

SW: How difficult was the transition from Argentina to
the U.S.?LP: It wasn't as difficult as I thought it could
have been. My English was terrible my freshmen year, so that was
probably the most challenging part, and being away from family and
friends of course.

SW: Do you have any hidden talents?LP: Hmm I can play a little bit of Tennis and
Ping-Pong but thats about it.

SW: What is your opinion on fellow countrymen Diego
Maradona?LP: As a player he was and will be the best of
all time. Off the field I don't think he is the right person to
admire or be influenced by. And as a coach I am sure he will be
successful in the future. I expected more from him and Argentina in
the past world cup.

SW: Who has had the biggest influence on your soccer
career?LP: My parents no doubt. My mom used to drive me
anywhere to support me although she doesn't understand much about
soccer; and my dad would kick around with me hours long trying to
help me to get better.

SW: What is your greatest accomplishment on the
pitch?LP: I don't really have great accomplishments but
I would say make it to the elite 8 with Tusculum College in
2008.

SW: What is the funniest thing Coach Giffard
says?LP: After every practice: "Let's suck it up and
get out of dodge"

SW: What do you do to relax on an off day?LP: Movies, hang out with friends and Cary Street
Gym.

SW: Is there anyone you model your game
after?LP: I try to imitate players that play in the
same position as me: Xabi, Iniesta, Gerrard, Banega. But I also
like to watch Messi and Drogba.

SW: Are vuvuzelas good for the sport?LP: Although it makes it harder to communicate
with each other on the field, I think it creates a more exciting
environment.

QUICK HITS

Favorite soccer player: MessiTeam: Boca Juniors from ArgentinaHome cooked meal: Eggs and rice, I am not a good
cookDream job: Pro Soccer playerWhen did you score your first goal? I can't
remember but probably when I was about 6 years oldWhat is the most played song on your iPod right
now? Anything from Lil Wayne and DrakeFavorite quote: Take care of the little things
and the big things will take care of themselves